Coating Finish Testing

There are many options available for applying protective layers to metal components or products, aiming to prevent corrosion damage and establish a safeguarding barrier. 

• Zinc Plating 

• Hot-Dip Galvanizing 

• Anodizing 

• Tin Plating 

• Electroless Nickel Plating 

• Chromium Plating 

• Cadmium Plating 

• Copper Plating 

• Phosphating 

• Paints and Powder Coatings: 

• Thermal Spray Coatings 

• Organic Coating Systems 

This testing involves measuring the thickness of a coating on a substrate, and it is particularly important for applications where the coating’s thickness directly influences its performance. 

Accurate coating thickness testing is essential to prevent issues such as inadequate protection due to insufficient thickness or problems related to excessive coating thickness, such as cracking or poor adhesion. The specific testing method chosen will depend on factors such as the type of coating, substrate material, and industry standards. 

Coating Weight Mass Testing ensures that coatings provide the intended benefits, such as corrosion resistance, adhesion, and durability. The choice of testing method depends on factors such as the type of coating, substrate material, and industry requirements. 

The coating weight mass test is mostly performed on flat sheet products of zinc plating and alloys, as set out in BS EN 10346:2015 for triple spot test or a single spot test, which gives our customers the results of the total coating mass of both sides of the product in g/m². 

Coating Thickness Microscopic Testing involves using a microscope to examine the cross-section of a coated sample to determine the thickness and characteristics of the coating. This method allows for a detailed analysis of the coating’s structure, including layer thickness, uniformity, adhesion to the substrate, and potential defects.  

Coating thickness microscopic testing is particularly valuable for research and development, quality control, and troubleshooting coating-related issues. It allows for a detailed examination of coating properties that may not be apparent through other testing methods. The choice of microscopic technique depends on the specific requirements of the analysis and the available equipment. 

We have two methods for performing these types of tests: 

• If the coating on the metal is visible, we use a microscope to measure the thickness. 

• If the coating is not visible or requires trace thickness measurements (where the thickness might be less than 1 micron or 1000th of a millimetre), we can use SEM Analysis to measure the coating 

Coating Adhesion Testing is a critical evaluation method used to assess the bond strength between a coating and the substrate. Adequate adhesion is essential for ensuring the coating’s durability, performance, and longevity. Various methods are employed to measure adhesion, and the choice of method depends on factors such as the type of coating, substrate material, and industry standards. 

Using a scribing tool or knife, coating adhesion testing help our customers to determine whether the correct thickness has been applied for the products, and that they meet their required standards. 

It’s important to note that the appropriateness of a particular adhesion testing method depends on factors such as the coating type, substrate material, and industry standards. The results of adhesion testing help ensure that coatings adhere securely to substrates and perform effectively in real-world conditions. 

This can be used on painted or coated products on a metallic substrate and used in accordance with salt spray testing or humidity testing, or as received samples.